Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka, Zimpapers Politics Hub
THE scourge of drug and substance abuse has become a national heartbreak, a hidden sorrow felt in every community across Zimbabwe. It is tearing apart the very fabric of society and threatening the future of the country’s youth.
The devastating impact of this crisis is most acutely felt among young people, many of whom are trapped in a destructive cycle of addiction.
Beyond the visible social and economic consequences, a growing number of youths are suffering from severe mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and, in some cases, drug-induced psychosis.
The widespread presence of these substances is not only derailing careers and education but also inflicting deep psychological harm, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive mental healthcare alongside rehabilitation efforts.
President Mnangagwa has consistently emphasised that the future of the nation depends on the health and well-being of its youth, and the Government is backing these words with decisive action.
Under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, the Second Republic has repeatedly reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to winning the war against drug and substance abuse.
To tackle the crisis, the Government has adopted a multi-sectoral approach. Key interventions include the establishment of the Inter-Ministerial Task Force on Drug and Substance Abuse, which co-ordinates efforts across ministries and stakeholders.
The Government is also funding and supporting the development of new rehabilitation centres and has launched public awareness campaigns to educate young people and communities about the dangers of substance abuse.
In addition, law enforcement has intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking and distribution networks to curb the supply of illicit substances.
The Government is not only enforcing a zero-tolerance policy but is also calling on communities and families to join the fight, recognising that a collaborative approach is essential to safeguarding the nation’s youth from this destructive trend.
On July 12, 2025, Zimbabweans from all walks of life gathered at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) to support President Mnangagwa’s bold and timely initiative to eradicate drug and substance abuse.
The event saw pledges exceeding US$3 million from individuals and stakeholders committed to supporting the Government’s plan to establish rehabilitation centres across the country.
This overwhelming response is not only commendable but also marks a new chapter in the nation’s collective consciousness and its resolve to confront this social scourge.
For years, Zimbabwe — like many other nations — has grappled with the devastating impact of drug abuse, particularly among the youth.
Substances such as crystal meth, marijuana, codeine mixtures, and other dangerous narcotics have infiltrated communities, creating an invisible crisis that has destroyed families, wrecked futures, and derailed progress.
In a strategic move to address the crisis, the upcoming 22nd Zanu-PF National People’s Conference, to be held at Mutare Polytechnic, will feature the issue of drug and substance abuse prominently on its agenda.
This signals a high-level commitment from the party, elevating the fight to a matter of national importance.
Zanu-PF National Chairperson, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, stressed that during the conference, all party wings must adopt zero-tolerance resolutions on drug and substance abuse and advocate for a levy to combat the issue, modelled after the Aids levy.
“During these meetings, designated senior Politburo members and an officer from the Office of the President and Cabinet will present updates on the implementation of previous congress and conference resolutions.
“Additionally, experts from the Drug and Substance Abuse Inter-Ministerial Taskforce will deliver related presentations. Consequently, all party wings and the main body must unequivocally adopt a new conference resolution advocating for zero tolerance to drug and substance abuse, and urging the Government to establish an
Anti-Drug and Substance Abuse Levy, modelled after the Aids levy,” said Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri.
By placing the issue on the conference agenda and proposing it as a formal resolution, the party is elevating the crisis to a matter of national importance.
The call for a dedicated levy, modelled after the highly successful Aids levy, reflects a long-term vision and a willingness to commit tangible financial resources.
This action signifies that Zanu-PF, as the ruling party, is not merely voicing support for President Mnangagwa’s stance but is also prepared to back it with a structured, party-driven mandate to protect the nation’s youth.
There is no doubt that the upcoming conference serves as one of the most important platforms for this cause, providing a high-level forum for strategic discussions.
This clear move shows that Zanu-PF, in its role as the ruling party, is demonstrating its commitment to fighting drug and substance abuse, mirroring the dedication of its First Secretary and President of the country.
While this is not the first time the party has brought the issue of drug and substance abuse to the forefront, elevating it to the conference level is of paramount importance.
The conference is where some of the country’s most pressing issues are debated and key resolutions are made.
If the issue of drug and substance abuse is adopted as a key resolution, it will mark a significant step forward in the fight against this menace — transforming a national concern into a party-driven, actionable mandate.
